Abstract
Infectious mononucleosis may be diagnosed with confidence only when Hoagland's diagnostic criteria have been met. The illness must be compatible with the known clinical features of infectious mononucleosis; there should be absolute and relative lymphocytosis on differential white cell count; there should be more than 20% atypical lymphocytes and serological tests should be positive—either a Paul-Bunnell Davidsohn or a rapid slide test for heterophil antibody. Failure to diagnose this common viral infection accurately may lead to inappropriate and perhaps harmful management, and may delay recognition of potentially life-threatening complications.
Keywords: mononucleosis, diagnosis, infection
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Selected References
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